Finally Back In The Wind
22 June 2014 | 4-1/2 Days North of New Zealand
The last couple of days we motored then motor sailed for 38 hours, a total of 200 miles until we found the top of the high with winds from the east. The winds started off light, maybe 12-15. Since it was such a beautiful warm evening and we were having a lovely sail, Don made us all a gin and tonic to celebrate. We had Alan's chile con carne for dinner and soon after the wind really started to build (not that kind of wind!) We have been trying to keep a heading of around 15 degrees (north-north-east) to sail past Minerva Reef, maybe even to stop there. But since the sun went down we've been seeing 20 knots and a bit more so have fallen off the mark a bit. Depending how long these stronger easterlies last, we will have to work hard to hold on to the heading we're currently on if we want to make Savu Savu. Right now I'm on my midnight to 3am watch. It's nice and warm tonight. Definitely time to pull the dooner off the bed. I started off with sweatpants and a t-shirt but just changed back into shorts. I just took a look outside and the stars are unbelievable. No other traffic though, it's pretty lonely out there. Thanks Carlos for the weather updates! And for tomorrow, Happy Birthday to my brother Mike. I love you bro.